Colorado Rockies - PlayerWatch

February 08, 2013|Reuters

LHP Drew Pomeranz, 24, was the Rockies' key acquisition in the July 2011 deal that sent RHP Ubaldo Jimenez to Cleveland. Pomeranz hasn't lived up to expectations -- he went 2-9 with a 4.93 ERA in 22 starts last year -- but it's worth remembering how limited his experience has been. He was Cleveland's No. 1 pick and the fifth overall in 2010, but he didn't sign in time to play that year. In two professional seasons, Pomeranz has pitched just 267 innings, and 115 of those have been in the big leagues.

3B Nolan Arenado, who hit .285 with 12 homers and 56 RBI last year in Class AA, likely will start the season at Class AAA but could earn a promotion and the opportunity to play regularly at a position where the Rockies are seeking someone long-term.

RHP Rob Scahill, who has a power arm, posted a 1.04 ERA in six September appearances. He has swing-and-miss stuff and can pitch multiple innings, which makes him suited for one of the Rockies' hybrid relief roles, but he must improve his control (74 walks and 159 strikeouts in 152 innings at Class AAA last season).

1B Todd Helton was arrested early on the morning of Feb. 6 and charged with DUI and careless driving. He was detained in the Denver suburb of Thornton, which is where Helton lives. According to the report from the Thornton Police Department, the police received a call from a witness reporting a black pickup truck swerved into the median before pulling into a gas station, which is where police located the truck. Helton, 39, who is entering the final season of a long career spent entirely with the Rockies, issued a statement through the Rockies, apologizing for his actions.